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I've played Carlton Oaks many times over the years, but the course conditions were rather disappointing and below average. I've played the course when it was in excellent condition.

Given the conditions today, it is clear that not much water has been used to maintain fairways and greens due to challenges imposed by limitations in water use. But, there are other aspects of maintaining the course that don't require water, but could be done to improve conditions. For example, the green complexes were rather rough and ratty with bunkers of hard pan sand, edges needing trimming, and greens that were patchy and weed laden in spots.

Overall, the course was in marginal condition suggesting to me that only the minimum in care is being provided. It's sad to see this Pete Dye layout not being attended to properly and with care because it really could be a nice course. In 2010, the course hosted the NCAA D1 Western Regional Tournament and the course was in great shape. I know ownership has changed and there are other forces determining how much can be appropriated in caring for the course.

Well, it shows!